Imad Wasim to introduce new ‘mystery’ ball soon

Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim has revealed that he is keen on expanding his bowling repertoire by working on a mystery ball.

The all-rounder returned to international arena with a bang as he bagged three wickets for 20 runs in his four overs against Australia during the first T20 in Abu Dhabi — a performance which helped him secure the award for player of the match.

“I’m working on a new mystery delivery, which I will start testing in coming weeks,” Wasim said while talking in an interview with former Pakistan head coach and now a TV presenter Waqar Younis.

Aaron Finch was bowled by Imad Wasim in first T20I between Pakistan and Australia at Abu Dhabi. Photo: Abu Dhabi Cricket

Due to his brilliant performance and Babar Azam’s classy half century, Pakistan registered a 66-run win against the Kangaroos — their biggest victory against their opponents in the shortest format of the game.When Younis asked him why he was out from the team despite no injury, Imad smiled and replied: “I wasn’t injured, but I failed to pass my fitness test.”

He added that watching Pakistan team from the sidelines was frustrating.

“It was quite frustrating to watch Pakistan team play from home. I was desperate to make my comeback and serve the country, but I had some fitness issues,” he said.

Earlier, Pakistan took a 1-0 lead in their three-match T20I series against Australia with a comfortable 66-run win after setting the visitors 156 in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday (October 24).

With the win, Pakistan will hold on to their top slot in ICC T20I rankings even if they lose the series from here. Australia were dismal as they slipped to their third lowest total – managing just 89 all out in 16.5 overs.

It all started with Imad Wasim knocking out both openers in the first over of the chase. Finch paid the price for being predictable and was bowled while D’Arcy Short chopped one back on to give the left-arm spinner two wickets on his return to international cricket.

Pakistan and Australia will play remaining two T20Is against Australia in Dubai on October 26 and 28.